Location: Central
Top Things to do in Central
What to do and see in Central, Illinois (IL): The Best Gift & Specialty Shops
The windy city is a cornucopia of modern art, fine dining, cutting edge comedy, and die-hard sports fans. Snap a photo of your reflection in the silver Cloud Gate sculpture at Millennium Park before heading to Grant Park to get hit with the refreshing spray of Buckingham Fountain. There are dozens of museums and theater companies in Chicago, so a cultural experience is never hard to find. You’re sure to laugh your head off at the Second City Theater, the professional launch pad of many famous comedians.
Restaurants in Chicago
1. Prudential Gem and Jewelry
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
2. Iwan Reis Cigars & Tobacco
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 25 reviews
3. Old Town Oil
4. Roots
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
5. The Glass Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 11 reviews
Please note LH Selman is currently open by appointment only. Please get in touch if you would like to schedule a time to come by the gallery. Welcome to L.H. Selman Ltd., a name that has been synonymous with the finest antique and contemporary paperweights for over 40 years. As the country's premier dealer in fine art glass paperweights our mission is to promote the very best by exhibiting and selling through our gallery and at auction the finest examples made in centuries past, and by nurturing new talent emerging from contemporary independent studios.
Reviewed By 866TaylorB - Chicago, United States
My wife and I recently purchased a fine glass antique paperweight from L.H. Selman Ltd. in Chicago to serve as a centerpiece for our extensive Civil War collection of rare and first-edition books, manuscripts, autographs, paintings and artifacts. Until we visited the Selman gallery and museum at 410 South Michigan Avenue, in the historic Fine Arts Building, overlooking Millennium Park and Grant Park and the nearby Art Institute of Chicago, we didn't have any knowledge about paperweights. In less than two hours, we received a thorough education. Selman is a name that has been synonymous with the finest antique and contemporary paperweights for over 40 years. It is the premier dealer in fine art glass paperweights in the United States and its mission is to promote the very best by exhibiting and selling through its gallery and at auction the finest examples made in past centuries and by nurturing new talent emerging from independent studios. It's a fascinating adventure, viewing the largest collection of antique and contemporary paperweights in the world. After it's over, you understand that a paperweight isn't a simple desk accessory. The origin of glass paperweights can be traced to France in 1845, when glass factories such as Baccarat, Saint Louis and Clichy were competing to create the world's finest crystal luxury items, including water sets, tableware and inkwells, then paperweights. Collectors range from kings and American presidents to writers and investors to Truman Capote and Arthur Rubloff. L.H. Selman was introduced to paperweights in the mid-1960s. He began collecting them, started a small mail order business, created a publishing company to distribute information about paperweights, then founded the International Paperweight Society and Museum on South Michigan Avenue. In 2001, he was named "one of the Top Ten People of the 20th Century" to influence the paperweight art form. In 2009, he sold his business to Mitch and Ben Clark. They picked up the torch--or the paperweight--and the Chicago art scene remains in sterling condition.
6. Pistachios
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 6 reviews
Pistachios is a contemporary jewelry gallery that has been located in the heart of downtown Chicago for over 21 years! We specialize in contemporary jewelry design created by the most talented and cutting edge artists in the world. Our gallery represents over 100 international studio artists whose work is selected based on innovative design and quality craftsmanship.
Reviewed By 490irinag - Illinois, United States
Pistachios is a very memorable store, specializing in modern jewelry and various art objects. All the items are uniquely designed, reflecting the latest trends in lines, colors, shapes, that represent some vanguard ideas of contemporary abstract art. Jewelry is excellently displayed and easily accessed. The staff of the store is very amiable, helpful and hospitable. Pistachios has a light, cheerful, welcoming ambiance, that made my first visit to this store quite enjoyable. Thank you! Pistachios is located across from The Shops at North Bridge, on E Grand Ave, not far from the Magnificent Mile.
7. The Spice House
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 20 reviews
Reviewed By TampaTornado - Lithia, United States
We were turned onto The Spice House in Old Town on a food tour and were looking forward to revisiting this time while in Chicago. Unfortunately, while we were there (11/2-11/4) the main store was closed due to water damage from a fire in the bar next door. Fortunately we found they have a small store/kiosk at the Navy Pier. While not as good smelling (can't drop spices all over the floor) as the original store, the staff was great and still a good selection. They have the BEST spices - especially love Vietnamese cinnamon, Lakeshore, and Milwaukee. Stocked up. New containers are improvement. We will be back for sure. Love me some Spice House!!!!! Great place!
8. Merz Downtown
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 11 reviews
Merz Downtown is the 2nd location of the 142-year-old Merz Apothecary. Situated in the beautiful and historical Palmer House hotel, we carry thousands of health + beauty products from around the world. With special emphasis on hard-to-find, natural, european, and traditional solutions, you're sure to find something special to take home for yourself or as a gift. Our expert staff is always available to help you find the perfect item to feel better, look better, or smell better.
Reviewed By lindsinic - Carmel, United States
Really loved this shop. Was looking for some natural ingredients to make some skincare products at home. Spent so much time just looking around, though, because there were so many brands you won’t find in your typical store. Would certainly return when visiting Chicago next. Would be a great place to put a gift basket together with skincare, either for a male or female.
9. Succezz
10. American Girl Place Chicago
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 463 reviews
Discover a place like no other, where lifelong memories are made, time together counts, and girls can be girls! Enjoy casual dining in the Bistro, where dolls are always welcome.
Reviewed By TaherAlbaghliJulian - Kuwait City, Kuwait
Located at the famous Water Tower Place, our Chicago store features specialty shops, private dining, and so much more.This shop great place for little girl to enjoyed dolls . there are many dolls working in different jobs.The dolls price are 124 $ .But,There are offers for some dolls around 30 $.The staff was nice and friendly.Highly recmmonded for little girls.
